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New 872 Area Code for Illinois

Due to increased demand for telephone numbers, the Illinois Commerce Commission approved the addition of a new area code, 872, for the same geographic area as the 312 & 773 area codes. Everyone should now begin dialing all local calls using 1+area code + 7-digit telephone number. Effective November 7, 2009, all calls must be dialed using this new dialing procedure.

What is the New Dialing Procedure?
To complete local calls, the new dialing procedure requires callers to dial 1 + area code + telephone number. This means that all calls in the 312 or 773 area codes need to be dialed using 1 + area code + telephone number.

When will the Change Begin?
Beginning November 7, 2009 you must use the new dialing procedure for all local calls. After this date, if you do not use the new dialing procedure, your call will not be completed, and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again. All customers should begin using the new dialing procedure before November 7, 2009.

Why is the Change Necessary?
To ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers, the 872 area code is being added to the area served by both the 312 & 773 area codes. Since more than one area code will now serve the same geographic region, 1 + the area code must be used when dialing any telephone number—including calls within the same area code. Beginning November 7, 2009, new telephone lines or services may be assigned numbers with the new 872 area code.

What Will You Need to Do?
In addition to dialing the 1 + area code + telephone number for all local telephone calls, you may need to:

Update any preprogrammed 7-digit telephone numbers in your handset to include the 1 + area code, as well as any text or email alert services.

Reprogram all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment that are programmed with a 7-digit telephone number to include the 1+ area code. Some examples are life safety systems, fax machines, Internet dial-up numbers, alarm and security systems, security gates, speed dialers, call forwarding settings, voicemail services, and similar functions.

What Will Remain the Same?
Your telephone number, including current area code will not change.

The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the overlay.

What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed.

You will still dial just three digits to reach 911.

If 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711, and 811 are available in your community, you will still dial them with just three digits.

Questions?
If you have any questions regarding information provided in this notice, please call RCN at 800.RING.RCN or access the ICC website: http://icc.illinois.gov.

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